Direct-to-Object (or DTO) printing is a unique form of digital printing. It uses ultraviolet light to dry or cure the ink almost immediately after it has been applied to a substrate. The UV printing process is unique. It can be used with flat and cylindrical objects. This can consist of almost all metals, acrylic, plastic, glass, canvas, and even wood. As the UV ink is distributed onto the substrate, specialized ultraviolet lights within the printer are immediately applied to the material over the top of the ink, drying it and adhering it to the substrate.
The UV printing process was initially developed for gel nail polishes. After the gel polish is applied, a UV light is used to cure the polish onto the surface of the nails. The result is a quick-drying, long-lasting, and flawless manicure. The benefits of UV light applications began to expand and were now used in the commercial and industrial markets. This forms the foundation of UV printing services and the associated printing industry. This technology is used to produce flyers, leaflets and screen printing. UV printing is not unlike traditional Click here for more printing. The inks used, as well as the drying and curing process, are different. This is in addition to the distinct nature of the printing technology itself.
Traditional printing uses solvent inks that are applied to a substrate and heated to cure it. Solvent-based inks may evaporate and spread onto the substrate's surface before drying. This can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The heat used to cure the solvent ink to the substrate produces an unpleasant odor. Additionally, solvent inks can absorb into the substrate and cause color fade. Spray powders can also prevent ink from drying and offsetting, which can lead to a slow and tedious process. Because of the nature and limitations of traditional printing, paper and similar materials are the only options. It cannot be used on other materials such as metal, plastic, glass, or acrylic.
With UV printing, specialized UV inks are used. To cure ink onto the substrate, high-intensity LED UV lights are used instead of heat. The ultraviolet light follows closely behind the ink as it is distributed onto the substrate. The ink will dry immediately regardless of the substrate. The ink does not evaporate because it dries quickly. Therefore, it can't spread onto the material that it is printed on.
In addition to the quick-drying capabilities and the eco-friendliness of UV printing, this ultraviolet printing method and the associated form of ink transfer can also be used with various materials, including paper, plastic, foil, acrylic, foam, etc. Additionally, no VOCs, ozone, or toxic fumes are released into the air. Companies that value sustainability in their printing processes will appreciate this feature.
Imagine all the possibilities when digitally printing is possible on an item. Instead of using a sticker to attach to the object, you can imagine the possibilities. DTO Direct-To-Object lets you print in full-color directly to the object.